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Review of the Hunter 28.5 by Jim Walsh

Year built 1985  
Location of boat Upper Chesapeake Bay  
The boat is sailed on Bays, sounds, or protected salt water  
How the boat is used Weekends and longer  
Normal wind strength less than 10 knots  
Average size of crew 2-4  
Liveaboard?  
Owner bought the boat in 1997  
If the clock could be turned back, would owner buy again? Definitely. My first sailboat after 26 years in the Army (couldn't own one while traveling). Big enough, yet small enough to make every mistake possible. Very forgiving. But after three years, looking for the right 33.5 to 37!  
Gear that's been added Mostly maintenance.  
Structural or complex improvements No.  
The boat's best features Yanmar's are bullet-proof, with a little maintenance. Boat is very forgiving. All major system are functioning fine, which is a major compliment to Hunter for a 14 year old machine. Interior and exterior show minor signs of age, but all in all, the boat is in fine shape and should see many more years.  
Problem areas in terms of design, materials, maintenance, etc. Given that the boat is 14 years old, the only problems I have had is the steering cable breaking, and the cabin floor now needs to be replaced (getting a little soft).  
Sailing characterisitcs In winds under 15 knots, the 28.5 is stable and fun. Above that, you pay the price for the high free board. Also, because (I assume) of it's beam, your never going to catch a C  
Motoring characterisitcs First boat, so it's difficult to compare. First year was definitely an experience backing into a slip, with currents and wind. Survived though. This winter I plan on replaced the two bladed prop with three.  
Liveability A little small for more than three or four people on an overnight. Storage is limited. But all in all, with experience, you adjust. For two people on an extended curise, plenty of room.  
The owner's experience in dealing with Hunter (if any) Requested manuals, and although none available, they copied what they had and sent within days.  
The owner's experience with the boat dealer or broker, if any Purchased from a Hunter dealer, no complaints.  
Other comments  

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